Today during General Conference for the Church, President Thomas S. Monson made a wonderful announcement....
"I am pleased to announce that effective immediately all worthy and able young men who have graduated from high school or its equivalent, regardless of where they live, will have the option of being recommended for missionary service beginning at the age of 18, instead of age 19. I am not suggesting that all young men will—or should—serve at this earlier age. Rather, based on individual circumstances as well as upon a determination by priesthood leaders, this option is now available.
As we have prayerfully pondered the age at which young men may begin their missionary service, we have also given consideration to the age at which a young woman might serve. Today I am pleased to announce that able, worthy young women who have the desire to serve may be recommended for missionary service beginning at age 19, instead of age 21."
Jason was at work, so later that day when he called I told him the great news and he felt the same way I did. We feel that it is wonderful and will keep the young men out of trouble during that limbo time that was there between graduation and the time they turned 19. With this new option they can go on their mission when they feel it best fits them. And with the young women age change there might be more young women who will be able to serve before they get married.